An olefin isomerization process employs a basic metal oxide catalyst, such
as magnesium oxide, which retains at least about 85 percent of its initial
activity for at least about 168 hours of on-stream time. The catalyst is
preferably a high purity magnesium oxide. The olefin isomerization process
and catalyst described herein are advantageously used for the production
of a terminal olefin such as 1-butene from an internal olefin such as
2-butene.
